Is your household experiencing slow drainage and unpleasant odors coming from your sinks? You don’t have to call a plumber just yet. Try this simple, effective solution using a common household ingredient – washing soda (soda ash). According to experts at Green Star Services in the UK, this natural approach is superior to using vinegar and baking soda for unclogging drains.
Why Vinegar and Baking Soda Aren’t Enough:
While vinegar and baking soda are often recommended for unclogging drains, the reaction between these two substances only produces water and a small amount of salt. This is not potent enough to break down built-up grease in pipes. What you need is a fat-dissolving agent, and that’s where washing soda (sodium carbonate) comes in.

Washing Soda: A Natural yet Powerful Solution
As the Green Star Services expert explains, “Washing soda has the ability to dissolve grease, soap scum, and buildup that cause clogs. Moreover, it doesn’t corrode pipes like strong chemicals do.” Washing soda is not only environmentally friendly but also easy to use, inexpensive, and readily available in most large supermarkets, such as Tesco, for around £2.
- Pour washing soda directly into the drain.
- Add hot water (not boiling) to the sink.
- Wait for at least 15 minutes to allow the washing soda to dissolve grease and grime. For severe clogs, you can leave it overnight.
- Flush the drain with hot water to completely remove any remaining debris.
With these simple steps, your sinks will be clean and odor-free without the need for harsh chemicals or professional help. This handy trick is especially useful for households that cook frequently and deal with greasy buildup.